Right in the heart of Clapham, not far from the Common, Mbare is an all-day Italian eatery serving big, crowd-pleasing Italian food at prices that won’t break the bank. Founders Cosimo Fenocchi and Gero Argento’s traditional restaurant offers a lively atmosphere in which to enjoy the easy-to-like food and drinks menu.
Mbare might look understated from the outside but the interior is more quirky. At one end of the restaurant a bicycle hangs from the wall above and the lights are hung from rustic wooden planks, which lend the whole room an orange glow, while large mirrors do a clever job of adding to the spacious feeling. It’s a perfect setting for a casual meal with friends and romantic enough for a date.
Mbare’s food offering begins with a full breakfast and brunch menu available every morning which features a range of classic dishes. With everything from pancakes with maple syrup and bacon, to eggs done in their own style with Parma ham, brie and spinach, you’ll be guaranteed to start your day off on the right foot.
An appealing daytime menu begins with starters such as truffle and pancetta croquettes, Parma ham-wrapped monkfish and burrata served with radicchio and chestnuts. There is also a tempting selection of sharing options available including deep-fried pizza, polenta fries and a meat and cheese board.
For the main event, a variety of freshly made pasta dishes are on offer including seafood linguini and butternut squash gnocchi with pancetta. Or, if you’re want something other than pasta, there are a few less traditionally Italian mains on offer such as lamb shank served with an artichoke purée, or a classic cheese and bacon burger.
Mbare’s drinks menu is largely cocktail focused, with a huge variety of different options available. There is also a decent list of wines available both by the glass and bottle.